Van Hollen, Cardin Break Ground on New Salisbury Regional Airport Runway Extension

Today, U.S. Senators Chris Van Hollen and Ben Cardin (both D-Md.) joined Wicomico County Executive Julie Giordano, Governor Wes Moore, and other state and local leaders to break ground on Salisbury Regional Airport’s (SBY) runway extension project. The project, which the Senators worked to support with $18,565,274 in federal funding – in addition to $500,000 in fiscal year 2022 Congressionally directed spending – involves lengthening the airport’s 6,400-foot runway by 1,200 feet to accommodate traffic from larger aircraft. The extended runway will also enable their airport to expand its commercial and freight services and boost the regional economy.

“Salisbury Regional Airport is a gateway to the Eastern Shore, the Delmarva region, and our state as the second busiest airport in Maryland. We fought to provide $19 million in federal funding, including from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, so Salisbury Airport can extend its runway to handle larger planes safely and effectively. These major investments will help keep the Salisbury Airport competitive, while attracting even more commerce to the region,” said Senator Van Hollen.

“Federal investment in the Salisbury Regional Airport is another victory for Maryland. Team Maryland has been fighting for a long time to secure these funds. They are not easy to get,” said Senator Cardin. “Runway expansion is critically important for safety and for economic development across the entire region.”

The federal funding is provided through the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) Airport Improvement Program, and Congressionally directed spending. AIP funds various airport infrastructure projects across the country, including repairs and upgrades to runways, taxiways, airport signage, lighting, and markings – all while creating thousands of jobs in the community. The Senators have consistently fought to provide funds for airports and terminal operators, including by helping to pass the fiscal year 2024 appropriations package, which included $3.88 billion for AIP projects. The IIJA included $15 billion for Airport Infrastructure Grants, which can be invested in runways, taxiways, safety and sustainability projects, as well as terminal, airport-transit connections and roadway projects. The federal funding for this project is also complemented by $9.9 million in local and state funds.